Items seized following searches linked to South East Antrim UDA in Ballyclare

By Q Radio News

Officers from the Paramilitary Crime Task Force (PCTF) conducted searches at two addresses in Ballyclare today, Wednesday 30 June, as part of an ongoing operation targeting suspected criminality linked to the South East Antrim UDA.

A number of items, including a quantity of suspected cocaine, were seized during the searches.

Detective Inspector O’Neill said: "The PCTF remains focussed on the organised criminality of those who hide under the banner of a paramilitary organisation.  We will continue to doggedly pursue those who are causing real harm to their own communities through the distribution and supply of illicit drugs.  South East Antrim UDA continue to be involved in all forms of organised criminality and look to control local communities, stopping people giving information to police, leaving them free to continue to exploit ordinary members of the public. 

Our Paramilitary Crime Task Force officers carried out searches in Ballyclare today, as part of an operation linked to the South East Antrim UDA. Various items, including a quantity of suspected cocaine, were seized. pic.twitter.com/1M19wBYVPq

— Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) June 30, 2021

“We are committed to tackling the wide ranging criminality and harm linked to this group and safeguarding communities. The possession and distribution of drugs within communities will not and should not be tolerated and we will continue our campaign against those who are intent on profiting from the significant harm caused by paramilitary criminality and activity.

“I would appeal to anyone with information about illegal money lending or drug use or drug dealing to call police on the non-emergency number 101.  Alternatively, you can submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”